This blog post covers the best smart home ideas for apartments, including some smart home gadgets they might find helpful.
Have you recently moved to an apartment and want to turn it into a smart home? Smart homes have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering homeowners a more convenient, comfortable, and secure living experience.
However, apartment living often poses unique challenges when incorporating smart home technology.
Limited space, rental restrictions, and shared living areas are just a few factors that can make it more challenging to create a smart home in an apartment. But with the right technology and a little creativity, it’s possible to turn your apartment into a smart and connected home.
Smart Lighting
One of the easiest ways to incorporate smart home technology into your apartment is through smart lighting.
Smart light bulbs and LED lights are great options for transforming your apartment’s lighting and creating a cozy and comfortable living space.
With smart light bulbs, you can control the brightness and color and even set schedules from your smartphone.
You can also use voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant to control your lights hands-free.
Smart Bulbs
Smart bulbs come in various shapes and sizes to fit different lighting fixtures in your apartment. Some popular smart bulb brands include Philips Hue, LIFX, and Sylvania.
These bulbs are easy to install and offer a range of features like dimming, color-changing, and setting schedules.
You can also use your smartphone to control your smart bulbs remotely, so you can turn your lights on and off even when you’re away from home.
Smart LEDs
Smart LED strips are another popular option for adding smart lighting to your apartment.
These strips can be placed under cabinets, behind TVs, or along the baseboards to create ambient lighting that enhances the mood of your living space.
Some popular smart LED strip brands include Govee, Philips Hue, and LIFX.
These strips can also be controlled from your smartphone or voice assistant, allowing you to easily adjust the lighting without getting up from your couch.
Smart Security
Security is always a concern in apartments, and smart home technology can help you keep your apartment safe and secure.
Smart security systems offer peace of mind and an added layer of protection. From smart door locks to motion sensors, you can monitor and control your home security from anywhere with an app on your smartphone.
Smart Door Locks
Smart door locks are a convenient way to control who enters your apartment. With a smart lock, you can unlock your door using your smartphone, a code, or even your fingerprint.
This makes it easy to give access to visitors or service providers, and you don’t have to worry about losing your keys. Some popular smart lock brands include August, Kwikset, and Schlage.
Motion Sensors
Motion sensors can be used to detect movement and trigger an alarm or notification if someone enters your apartment without permission.
These sensors can be placed near windows, doors, or other entry points to detect unwanted activity. Some popular motion sensor brands include Ring, Nest, and SimpliSafe.
Smart (Wi-Fi) Cameras
Smart cameras can also help you monitor your apartment while you’re away. These cameras can be placed strategically throughout your apartment and accessed through your smartphone or voice assistant.
Some popular smart camera brands include Nest, Arlo, and Wyze. These cameras can also be integrated with other smart home devices, like smart door locks and motion sensors, to provide a comprehensive security system.
Smart hubs
Smart hubs are a critical component of any smart home setup. A smart hub is a central control system that connects all your smart devices, enabling them to communicate and work together seamlessly.
Smart hubs come in different brands and models, and some of the most popular ones include Amazon Alexa, Google Nest Hub, Apple HomeKit, and Samsung SmartThings Hub.
Amazon Alexa
Alexa is an intelligent voice assistant that enables you to control your smart home devices using voice commands. Alexa supports thousands of smart devices, including lighting, thermostats, smart locks, and smart home security systems.
It can also perform many other tasks, such as providing news and weather updates, playing music, and setting reminders.
Google Nest Hub
Formerly known as Google Home, is a smart hub that allows you to control your home’s lighting, temperature, and other smart devices.
It is also compatible with a wide range of third-party smart devices, enabling you to access Google Assistant’s extensive functionality.
Nest Hub has a built-in display that shows relevant information and can play music and videos.
Apple HomeKit
Apple HomeKit is a smart home platform that works with a wide range of smart home devices, including lighting, thermostats, smart locks, and smart home security systems.
It provides a user-friendly interface that allows you to control your smart devices with your voice or through an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch.
HomeKit also supports automation, enabling you to set up routines and scenes that automatically adjust your smart home’s settings.
Samsung SmartThings Hub
Smartthings is another popular smart hub that allows you to control and monitor your smart home devices from a single location.
It supports many smart home devices, including lighting, security systems, thermostats, and smart locks. In addition, SmartThings Hub provides a user-friendly interface that allows you to control your devices through your smartphone or tablet.
It also supports automation, enabling you to set up routines that can control multiple devices simultaneously.
When choosing a smart hub for your apartment, several factors must be considered.
First, please consider the types of devices you want to connect and make sure that the hub you choose is compatible with them. It’s also essential to consider the hub’s features, such as voice control, automation, and compatibility with other smart home platforms.
Finally, consider the cost, as some hubs can be expensive, and you want to ensure you’re getting value for your money.
Smart Thermostats
Installing a smart thermostat is one of the best ways to save energy and money in your apartment. These devices allow you to control the temperature of your home from your smartphone, no matter where you are.
You can even set schedules for when you’re home or away, so you’re not wasting energy or money on heating or cooling an empty apartment.
Here are three examples of smart thermostats perfect for apartments:
Nest Thermostat
The Nest Thermostat is a popular choice for smart home enthusiasts. It’s easy to install and use, and it learns your habits over time to create a personalized schedule that maximizes energy savings.
You can control it from your smartphone or with your voice using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
ecobee SmartThermostat
The ecobee smart thermostat is another popular choice for apartment dwellers. It features a sleek design, a color touch screen, and built-in Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility.
You can control it from your smartphone or with your voice, and it even comes with a smart sensor to help regulate the temperature in different rooms.
Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat
The Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat is an excellent choice for those who want a budget-friendly option without sacrificing features.
It has a touch screen display and can be controlled with your smartphone or with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
It also comes with a remote sensor to help regulate the temperature in different parts of your apartment.
Smart Vacuum Cleaners (Robots)
Keeping your apartment clean is essential but can be time-consuming and exhausting. Smart vacuum cleaners, or robot vacuums, can make this task much more manageable.
These devices can be programmed to clean your floors while you’re away and can even be controlled with your smartphone.
Here are three examples of smart vacuum cleaners that are perfect for apartments:
iRobot Roomba i7+
The iRobot Roomba i7+ is one of the most advanced robot vacuums on the market.
It has a self-emptying dustbin that can hold up to 60 days of dirt and debris, so you don’t have to worry about emptying it frequently.
It can be controlled with your smartphone or with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
Eufy RoboVac G30
The Eufy RoboVac G30 is a budget-friendly option that still offers plenty of features.
It has a slim design that can fit under furniture, and it can be controlled with your smartphone or with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
It also has boundary strips to keep it from going where it shouldn’t.
Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL
The Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL is another advanced robot vacuum that can hold up to 30 days of dirt and debris.
It has a powerful suction system and can be controlled with your smartphone, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant.
It also comes with a self-cleaning brush roll that removes hair and other debris.
Smart Plugs
Smart plugs are a simple and affordable way to make your home smarter. These devices plug into your existing outlets and allow you to control the power to whatever is plugged into them.
You can turn devices on and off with your smartphone, set schedules, and even control them with your voice. Here are three examples of smart plugs that are perfect for apartments:
TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug
This smart plug works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control your devices with voice commands.
It also has an energy monitoring feature, so you can track how much energy your devices are using.
Wemo Mini Smart Plug
This plug is compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, and can be controlled with the Wemo app as well.
It’s compact design allows for stacking two smart plugs in one outlet, which is perfect for those who have limited wall outlet space.
iDevices Switch
This smart plug works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.It has a unique LED nightlight feature that can be customized to your desired color and brightness.
The iDevices app allows you to control the plug from anywhere and monitor energy usage.
Smart power strips
Smart power strips are a convenient way to control multiple devices and manage your energy usage. They are designed to make your life easier by allowing you to turn off multiple devices simultaneously or set schedules to save energy.
Here are some examples of smart power strips that you can use in your apartment:
Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip
This smart power strip from TP-Link is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control your devices with voice commands.
It also has six smart outlets and three USB ports, making it a great option for charging multiple devices.
Wemo Insight Smart Plug
The Wemo Insight Smart Plug is a single-outlet smart plug that allows you to control your device from anywhere with the Wemo app.
It also tracks energy usage and provides detailed reports, allowing you to save money on your energy bill.
APC Smart Plug Surge Protector
The APC Smart Plug Surge Protector is a six-outlet power strip with three smart outlets that can be controlled with the APC Home app.
It also has two USB ports for charging your mobile devices and provides surge protection to keep your devices safe.
Overall, smart power strips are a convenient way to manage your energy usage and control multiple devices in your apartment. With the right smart power strip, you can easily control your devices and save money on your energy bill.
Space-saving
Space-saving furniture is an important consideration when creating a smart home in an apartment.
Here are three examples of space-saving furniture that can help you maximize your limited space:
Murphy Beds
Murphy beds, or wall beds, are a classic example of space-saving furniture. These beds fold vertically against the wall, creating more floor space in your apartment.
You can use the space for a home office, a yoga studio, or even to create a more open living area. Then, when it’s time to go to sleep, pull the bed down, and you’re ready for a good night’s sleep.
Murphy beds come in many different sizes and styles, so you can find one that matches your decor and meets your needs.
Storage Ottomans
Storage ottomans are another excellent example of space-saving furniture. These ottomans serve a dual purpose: they provide a place to rest your feet while also providing additional storage space.
You can use them to store blankets, pillows, books, or even toys. Some storage ottomans even come with a built-in tray to use as a coffee table or extra seating for guests.
Convertible Sofas
Convertible sofas are a popular option for small apartments. These sofas can be easily converted into a bed, providing extra sleeping space for guests.
Some models also come with built-in storage, allowing you to store pillows, blankets, and other bedding. Convertible sofas come in many different styles, so you can find one that fits your decor and budget.
Conclusion
For more in-depth information on smart home products that are perfect for apartments, be sure to check out our blog on “Smart Home Products” where we explore some of the best smart home products for apartments in 2024.
In conclusion, creating a smart home in an apartment is possible with the right technology and a bit of creativity. From smart lighting to space-saving furniture, there are many options for making the most of your limited space and transforming your apartment into a smart and connected home.
Best Chromebook: Google Pixelbook Go
Tech Specs
- 13.3-inch LCD touchscreen display
- Intel Core i5-1135G7
- 256 GB SSD
- 8GB DD4 Ram
- 12.5 battery hours
- 3.1 Pound
Who these are for: Students, people who need only basic features, and anyone who wants a cheap laptop to use as a second PC.
Why we liked the Google Pixelbook Go!
The Google Pixelbook Go is a beautiful package, from the gorgeous 13.3 inch touchscreen display and accurate keyboard to the 12-hour battery. It costs a few hundred dollars less than our top ultrabook pick and has nearly identical specs.
And unlike most cheap ultrabooks, the notebook is sturdy, has a fingerprint reader, and comes with a convenient and easily replaceable USB-C charger.
Disclaimer: Prices are at time of the review and subject to change.
Best MacBook: Apple rMBP 16-inch
Tech Specs
- 16-inch LCD touchscreen display
- Intel Core i5-1135G7
- 512GB SSD
- 16GB DD4 Ram
- 10.5 battery hours
- 2 Pounds
Who these are for: If you prefer macOS or need limited tech support, a MacBook is a safe bet. The 16-inch models usually offer the best performance of size, weight, and speed. They’re great for writers, office workers, commuters, and college students.
Why we liked the 16-inch Model:
The 2021 MacBook Air uses an Apple M1 chip that delivers great performance and fantastic battery life. And the keyboard is finally improved with the new switches. But the Air’s light weight, solid construction, and industry-trailing support make it a decent laptop, especially if you also own an iPhone or other Apple devices.
Disclaimer: Prices are at time of the review and subject to change.
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